Hypnosis / Hypnotherapy Treatments

What is Hypnosis / Hypnotherapy?

Below is a full explanation of Clinical Hypnosis / Hypnotherapy and how it is very safe and endorsed by the BMA (British Medical Association) in 1952. Following this you will find answers to common questions about Hypnosis / Hypnotherapy, ending with information about Stage Hypnosis.

Natural Self-Hypnosis via Television, etc.

You can enter brief states of hypnotic trance unintentionally many times whilst being fully absorbed in reading, or watching TV, or listening to music, or fishing, etc. Your mind just wanders and you use your imagination whilst you visualise a lot.

Natural Self-Hypnosis via Driving

You can enter periods of hypnosis trance unintentionally, whilst driving on a monotonous long journey. You may be driving for a few seconds or minutes on autopilot, then suddenly realise you missed your turning and wonder how you got so far.

Natural Self-Hypnosis blocks out others

Whilst you are so totally relaxed, absorbed and focused whilst watching TV, reading or driving etc, you may block out someone talking to you or other surrounding noises. Don't worry as this is totally normal, it's just your mind having an automatic relaxing break, from time to time.

Small investment gains large potential

Imagine receiving a bank statement from a savings or investment account surprising you with more money than you dreamt of. You may be also surprised by the large potential of the subconscious part of your mind. You can unleash your mind's potential to heal the past, achieve goals and targets, or develop success. Robotic Scientists, Software Programmers and Psychologists have worked together for years trying to copy the brain into robotic automatic responses and movements. Your small brain still remains more intelligent and more capable to maximise its resources and potential than all the largest and sophisticated computers in the world. Yet we still prefer to spend more on a new outfit, a weekend away, or another small luxury, than to invest wisely to unleash our mind's natural motivation, vast energy and enormous positive potential.

Common questions about professional clinical Hypnotherapy

How does my subconscious mind drive negative thoughts and behaviours?

The deep subconscious part of your mind is where you store negative and positive thoughts and feelings. Most people coming to our practice have many old, out-of-date, negative thoughts, feelings, emotions, which then drive automatic daily negative behaviours and actions. During our professional Clinical Hypnotherapy, we will safely bypass the conscious part of your mind which acts as a strict 'gate-keeper'. During a deep, relaxing, Hypnotic Trance, gentle, safe, reassuring suggestions and dream-like stories are told to you, which help and support you towards rapid, safe, positive and happy changes. Although you are not actually asleep, you should feel deeply relaxed, calm, dreamy and really enjoy this very pleasant, deeply relaxing trance. The old, negative, out-of-date thoughts and feelings and emotions are exchanged for new positive, happy ones, this new stored information is stored deep in your subconscious. Then your improved subconscious drives you forward with automatic positive thoughts, feelings, emotions, behaviours and actions. It is like before you were trying to put together a jigsaw puzzle with parts that don't fit anymore, as if they belonged to another puzzle. But now you have the right pieces and it goes together easily and quickly without effort or anxiety. So you now feel positive, calm, relaxed and whole again.

What really is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a natural and normal state of the mind, in which the body experiences a state of deep physical relaxation, while the mind remains clear, alert and focused. In this altered state of awareness, the inner subconscious mind becomes open and suggestible. A person naturally enters this state many times during a normal day - just most of us are not aware that it is happening. How many times have you been thinking about something while driving your car and suddenly realised that your exit was 3 miles back? Most of us go to the movies and get so caught up in the drama of the story; we forget that we are only watching a movie. Most of us daydream from time to time. All of these are examples of a natural state of hypnosis called "environmental hypnosis." It’s easy to go into Hypnosis because it’s a normal state of mind that everyone has already experienced. In fact, Hypnosis is such a normal state of mind, most people usually don’t even realize that they are hypnotised. You see, Hypnosis occurs every day – when you’re driving down the road and lose track of time, or when you’re focusing on a book or television programme and you don’t even notice something that’s going on around you. When you come for Clinical Hypnotherapy all you need to do is to be able to follow the instructions of the professional Hypnotherapist and you can put the power of Hypnosis to work for you.

How can I tell when I'm hypnotised?

It depends on each unique individual. Some people are more aware of changes felt in their bodies than others. It also depends on how deep into the hypnotic state the person has allowed himself to drift. You may experience sensations of: feeling very light or floating, very heavy arms or legs, tingling sensations, gentle pleasant spinning, dry mouth, or just very pleasantly relaxed, in a dreamy state.

What does it feel like to be hypnotised? Does hypnosis really feel good?

It feels really great and relaxing, as Clinical Hypnosis is a state of calm focus that you allow yourself to enter. It’s very similar to that ‘miles away’ feeling you probably find yourself in from time to time when you let your mind wander. Most people will experience different bodily sensations ranging from a dry mouth, limbs feeling very heavy or light, or tingling sensations, or lovely pleasant, floating, dreamy sensations. Most people feel so wonderfully relaxed and really enjoy the calming hypnotic state very much. Many refuse to be counted back up at the end, prefer instead to experience another 10 minutes of this powerfully relaxing experience, when all their anxieties feel dissolved and their goals are more focused.

How can the Hypnotherapist tell if I am really in a trance?

The client is supported to gradually drift deeper, into a pleasant, highly relaxed state of inner calmness. This depth of relaxing trance can be measured by observing the clients outward signs. Their breathing become slower, their facial and body muscles relax, plus other observable, clear physical signs. Plus here we have the latest electronic diagnostic equipment which is attached to your fingers and constantly monitors how deep in Hypnosis you are really going, to maximise Hypnotherapy effectiveness. The clear intention is to conduct therapy, by identifying important problems and empowering the client to identify effective solutions. The client remains in a hypnotic trance by choice and can safely return to the room from trance at any time they wish. Clients enjoy the deep relaxation and are motivated to solve important challenges.

Can anyone be hypnotised? Can I really be hypnotised?

Yes, any person of at least average intelligence and ability to focus and concentrate can go into hypnosis. The better that one is able to concentrate and focus and the more intelligent a person is, the easier it is for him to go into the hypnotic trance. Above all, the person must be willing. No one can hypnotise you if you don't want to be hypnotised, as your natural mind defences will prevent this from happening.

Will I be asleep, or will I know what is going on around me?

No, you are definitely not asleep, though to an observer, your body appears to be sleeping because you are in a state of deep physical relaxation. You are completely awake and aware of your surroundings. You hear everything. Since all your senses are magnified 8 times, you are actually more alert and aware while you are in hypnosis than you are in your normal waking state.

How does a skilled professional Hypnotherapist put someone into Hypnosis?

All hypnosis is self-hypnosis, and the power comes from within the mind of the person being hypnotised. The hypnotherapist is merely the guide who directs and leads the person into the hypnotic state. The Hypnotherapist induces the hypnotic trance by using certain words and phrases the subconscious mind understands, as well as using various techniques like deep breathing, imagery, plus a slow and gentle tone of voice.

Why doesn't the effectiveness of Hypnotherapy wear off between sessions?

We record most sessions to give 'Homework CDs' at the end of each session. CD’s are used between sessions or after the last session is completed.

Is Hypnosis dangerous? Can you guarantee I will wake up OK?

Clinical Hypnosis in the hands of a highly skilled professional Hypnotherapist is not dangerous. It is just a natural state of the mind, utilised by the Hypnotherapist to help the individual change certain old negative habits or patterns of behaviour. The subconscious mind has natural defences built in which will automatically reject any suggestions it deems harmful. You will come out of trance just as surely as you always wake up from sleep.

Hypnosis is not mind control at all. All types of Hypnosis are really self-hypnosis, because without your direct wish and agreement, you cannot be put into a safe, relaxing, Hypnotic Trance. The professional Clinical Hypnotherapist cannot make you do or say anything you ordinarily would not do, or did not wish to. You remain completely in control and are awake and alert, yet so deeply relaxed. You will not lose control while you are in Hypnosis. You are conscious and aware of what is being suggested. You are in control and the mind will immediately reject any undesired suggestions automatically.

Are people who can easily be hypnotised just gullible, stupid, weak-minded?

Quite the opposite indeed, as a gullible, unintelligent or weak-minded person is incapable of maintaining the necessary focus and concentration necessary to go into the deeply relaxing and rewarding Hypnotic state. Clinical Hypnosis / Hypnotherapy is used often to boost a person's will power, motivation and memory.

How much will I remember when I wake up or will I forget everything?

Most people remember everything that went on while they were in Hypnosis, but sometimes, if they went into a particularly deep state, they may choose to forget what happened. Sometimes the Hypnotherapist will suggest that they will forget what happened and they do. Other times people have the misconception that they are supposed to forget everything, so they do - because they gave themselves the actual suggestion to forget.

How deep into a trance will I go?

That depends entirely upon the unique individual themselves as to how willing they are to enter into the Hypnotic state and how far they are willing to let themselves go. Some people are naturally able to enter a deeper 'theta' hypnotic state (somnambulists), while others are capable of entering into deeper states because they have been hypnotised in the past, or practice yoga or meditation. It is not important how deep you go, just that you are willing to give Clinical Hypnosis / Hypnotherapy a chance to work.

Does the professional Hypnotherapist have any special "powers"?

The skilled Clinical Hypnotherapist is just an ordinary person like you or me. However, they have special training, continuous assessments and supervision, to learn how to speak directly to your subconscious mind in a way it understands. There are no Svengalis or Hypnotists like you see in the movies that are just fantasy created for comedy or entertainment. The professional Hypnotherapist has no mystical or supernatural powers. Anyone with the same training, qualifications, accreditations and supervision can learn to safely Hypnotise for therapy and personal improvement.

Can a Hypnotherapist make me do things against my will - like the movies?

No, not at all! A professional Clinical Hypnotherapist cannot make you do anything against your will, your morality or your ethics. What you have seen in the movies is pure fantasy, total make-believe. A trained Hypnotherapist cannot call you up on the telephone and order you to rob a bank or murder someone, (unless you already wanted to do that.) Your mind has natural very strong defences against harmful suggestions. It will always protect itself if it is not totally and completely sure.

Will I wake up afterwards - What will happen if I don't?

Yes, without doubt, the majority of people who are hypnotised will come safely and fully out of the state, when brought out by the highly trained and skilled Hypnotherapist. On occasions, someone will themselves choose to remain in the deeply relaxing hypnotic state, for a few minutes longer. This is because they either entered a particularly deep state, or it feels so very good they want to remain in Hypnosis a little while longer. They may choose to drift into a natural sleep state and wake themselves up naturally, a little later than initially planned. It's a little like the time when you decided to stay in bed just 10 or 15 minutes longer, yet you still wake up safely and even more rested and refreshed.

What can Clinical Hypnosis / Hypnotherapy be used for?

Hypnosis can be utilised in many ways, although the hypnotic state may not always be called "Hypnosis.” Hypnosis is sometimes used for entertainment, fun or comedy purposes (stage shows). Or as in our own professional practice, Hypnosis is used only within a clinical setting such as in Clinical Hypnotherapy, to make rapid, safe, positive changes in a person's life. It is also used often in the medical and dental fields, for its anxiety, anaesthetic and/or pain control benefits. It is also used by Psychologists, Psychotherapists and Psychiatrists as an adjunct to their Psychotherapy, Counselling or medication. Self-Hypnosis is an integral component in yoga, bio-feedback and meditation. Top athletes are regularly using self- hypnosis on a daily basis, when they focus during competition to "get into the zone."

Can hypnosis really help me, I'm not convinced?

Yes it definitely can and it will. Hypnosis can be used to make positive changes in your life. Some well-known and widely researched examples are: stop smoking, lose weight, stop/reduce drinking alcohol, stop using drugs, remove fears / phobias, reduce / remove stress and anxiety, improve self-esteem and confidence, improve sales ability, improve sports performance, increase memory retention. Practically any negative, bad or destructive thoughts, feelings, habits or behaviours can be removed via Clinical Hypnosis / Hypnotherapy. It can help improve love, work, family or friend relationships and communication etc.

Can I learn Self-Hypnosis?

Yes, anyone can learn Self-Hypnosis since you naturally do it anyway. Most of the time, however, we are giving ourselves repeated negative, unhappy suggestions (self-talk) instead of positive, uplifting, happy ones. You can learn Self-Hypnosis from a trained, highly skilled Clinical Hypnotherapist, like us. When you come for Hypnotherapy we will also make personal CDs for you to listen to at home, which speed your therapy along quicker, therefore saving you time and money.

How many Clinical Hypnotherapy sessions will I need?

In most cases, somewhere between 2 and 6 sessions are all that’s required, but this does depend on the individual and the issue being treated. For example simple Phobia’s or Fears, most often respond to a minimum of sessions, while more complex, long-standing and multi-faceted issues (e.g. depression, OCD or panic, or anxiety, which has lasted for years) obviously require longer. In your initial consultation, we will assess your situation fully and give you a honest, realistic appraisal of the number of sessions you may require. Sometimes just a few sessions are needed to treat outward symptoms, but on other times more sessions are needed to go back and re-programme the memory of distressing root cause(s).

How long does a Clinical Hypnotherapy session last?

Our Hypnotherapy sessions usually last for 60 minutes. Most other therapists only offer 45 or 50 minute sessions, so beware if you are only comparing a session cost. However, because each session is specifically tailored to the individual’s needs, our session lengths may be even longer than this for 2 hours.

How does Stage Hypnosis work?

The purpose is to provide entertainment or comedy for 10 to 20 minutes, to an audience. Participants are chosen by a combination of extrovertist, attention seeking, willingness to perform on stage, and how quickly and they may go into a public trance. On the TV there is often pre-selection followed by priming pre-hypnosis, which an audience does not see. There is an enormous pressure for participants to perform on stage whether they are truly hypnotised or not. The levels of or lack of, training or insurance vary greatly. These stage sessions are governed by the national 1952 Stage Hypnotism Act plus local council rules. People must be over 18, plus not guided intentionally or unintentionally, backwards towards age regression or childhood. We do not practice stage hypnosis', or 'group hypnosis'. We specialise in providing effective private professional therapy, to solve personal challenges holding you back.

How do I learn to hypnotise someone and become a Stage Hypnotist?

Leading professional and highly-skilled Clinical Hypnotherapists will not become involved in Stage Hypnosis. Plus the leading UK Professional Associations would not allow these two completely different areas to be combined by the same person. Most Hypnotists performing on stage just belong to overseas Stage Hypnosis Associations. A Stage Hypnosis course might be only 1 or 2 days maximum, or might even be just a few hours totally online via a PC, or reading a small Manual and watching a DVD. Our advanced qualifications in Clinical Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy have taken 3 years and are listed on our personal profile pages.